1. Avoid Cataract Surgery Unless Absolutely Necessary
Although Fuchs dystrophy is a known genetic disease, the one aggravating factor is cataract surgery. Individuals who have the surgery are (for whatever reason) far more likely to develop the condition than those who never do. If you're experiencing cataract problems that must be addressed by surgical means, and you believe you may be at risk for developing Fuchs dystrophy down the line (due to a family history with the disease), work with your surgeon to ensure you get special treatment to minimize any abrasion or distress to the cornea.
2. Treat Symptoms and Try to Correct Some of the Damage
Fuchs dystrophy is a genetic disease. Unless and until scientists devise ways to identify and treat the offending gene before problems arise, there's little an at-risk patient can do other than to monitor his or her symptoms and react methodically if symptoms manifest.
That said, although Fuchs dystrophy ultimately causes the degradation of the cornea over time, you can reduce your discomfort and improve your vision. To remove fluid buildup in the cornea, softly blow warm air on the eyes using a hairdryer or other heating element. If you wear contact lenses or eyeglasses, you can get special soft moisturizing lenses to reduce eyestrain. Your doctor can also prescribe various ointments, eye drops and other therapies to alleviate fluid buildup in the cornea that can exacerbate the symptoms of Fuchs dystrophy.
3. Opt for a Cornea Transplant or Other Surgical Intervention
The only way to prevent dystrophy leading to blindness is to replace the cornea itself. If you can't afford to undergo a complete cornea transplant, you can attempt other surgical corrective/preventive measures. For instance, there's a surgical technique known as deep lamellar keratoplasty that can be used instead of a cornea transplant to relieve symptoms and restore normal vision.
